Lithium is used for the treatment of various disorders, especially in the treatment of bipolar disorders. It may also have certain minor and major side effects but not all are prone to experiencing them.
Lithium is mainly used in the treatment of bipolar depression, that is, mania in bipolar disorder. It does not really cure the disorder but is helpful in controlling the symptoms of depression. It has shown positive results with many who have taken it as a treatment for manic bipolar disorder. In bipolar disorder treatment lithium affects the neurotransmitters, which is a certain chemical in the brain. Like any other medication, the side effects can be major or minor, but all those who consume it may need not necessarily experience these symptoms. They may experience a few of the symptoms in varying intensity and frequency.
Side Effects of Lithium
Though the side effects might be tolerated by some, these might be a cause of major concern for some. These side effects may also lead to other ailments, and cause a lot of discomfort for the patient. The side effects also differ depending upon the form in which it is consumed. Certain side effects may occur due to an overdose that leads to toxicity in the body. Mentioned below are some of the side effects, depending on the form in which it is consumed, and the body systems that experience the side effect.
Adverse Effects of Lithium Tablets and Syrup
When taken in the form of tablets, side effects such as increased thirst, nausea, discomfort and mild trembling of the hands might be experienced. This is usually observed in the beginning of the treatment. The severe side effects include diarrhea, persistent nausea or vomiting, fainting, drowsiness and giddiness, excessive and rapid weight gain, muscle weakness, blurred vision, and difficulty in speech. If the symptoms persist and cause discomfort, immediate consultation with a medical practitioner is required.
When consumed as a syrup, lithium mainly results in toxicity. It includes severe effects like seizures, loss of coordination of the muscles, slow or irregular heartbeat, twitching of the muscles, allergies like rashes and hives, swelling of the mouth, face and neck, confusion, tinnitus, uncontrollable and involuntary urination, and bowel movements. These side effects can cause major discomfort for the patient and need immediate medical attention. The toxicity, if not treated immediately, could even also lead to death.
Side Effects on the Body Systems
Endocrine System
The most important side effect of lithium on the endocrine system is that it limits the secretion of thyroxine and triiodothyronine and increases thyrotropin activity, thereby causing ailments like goiter, hyperglycemia, hypothyroidism, and myxedema.
Nervous System
Hand tremors, blackouts, vertigo, insomnia, incontinence, seizures, coma, lethargy, etc., are some of its effects on the nervous system.
Renal System
Nephrogenic diabetes insipidus, abnormalities in serum electrolyte, sodium loss, dehydration, glomerular sclerosis, renal tubular acidosis, tubular atrophy, interstitial fibrosis, nephrotic syndrome, etc., are some of the kidney-related problems that have been reported in a few of the patients being treated with lithium.
Cardiovascular System
It can have an adverse effect on the cardiovascular system, and could cause cardiovascular problems such as low blood pressure, collapse of the peripheral circulatory system, changes in EKG like, inversion of the T wave, sinus node dysfunction, etc.
Dermatological Side Effects
These include excessive hair loss or alopecia, skin allergies like skin rashes and hives, acne, psoriasis, ulcers, and eruptions. These are common side effects that can be eliminated easily.
Other side effects of lithium include dry mouth, weight loss and edema, decrease in libido and sperm count.
If any of these symptoms persist, the use of lithium would have to be stopped completely. It is always advisable to consume lithium tablets or syrup, as per the dosage prescribed and discuss any side effects with your doctor, as soon as they appear.
Disclaimer: This PsycholoGenie article is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice.
